Professor Joe Goldblatt is Emeritus Professor of Planned Events at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh. He is the author, co–author and editor of 40 event management books.

His research has included royal weddings, the Welcome America Festival and a visit by Pope Benedict XVI. His company’s work included White House events, the Nashville Convention Center opening, and the Trump Taj Mahal Casino and Resort opening.

He has a bachelor’s in fine arts, a master’s in tourism and administration, and a doctoral degree in educational leadership.

He has held teaching and research posts at George Washington University, served as the Dean of the Alan Shawn Feinstein Graduate School at Johnson & Wales University, Providence, and as Executive Director of the Event Leadership Certificate Program at Temple University, Philadelphia.

He was founding president of the International Live Events Association (ILEA) and developed the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) program. He has received Lifetime Achievement Awards from ISES and Special Events. He has been inducted into the International Festivals and Events Association Hall of Fame.

He lives in Edinburgh with his wife Nancy.